Another Memorable Raisin River Canoe Race

What a difference a week can make

April 22, 2018

Excitement at "the Devil's Chute". Photo Credit: Rob Fry.

The 46th Annual Raisin River Canoe Race left St. Andrews West on a gorgeous April morning, and wound it's way downstream to Williamstown. A flotilla of 165 canoes and kayaks comprising of paddlers of all ages, and from near and far, entertained spectators all along the 30 km route.

The first team to cross the finish line were the pro-boat tandem of Jeff Brainard (from Roslin) and Gaetan Plourde (of North Gower) in a time of 2:34:53. Christopher Weber (Chelsea) and Joanna Faloon (Ottawa) were second, and local paddlers Corey and Cody Van Loon of St. Andrews West were third.

The event, originally scheduled for April 15 was postponed one week due to the ice storm. What a difference a week made. Water and weather conditions were ideal for spectators, safety crews, volunteers and paddlers alike.